Cabinet okays Disabilities Bill
The Union Cabinet on Thursday approved the
Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill, a comprehensive measure that covers a
whole spectrum of problems from physical disabilities to mental illness and
multiple disabilities. It will replace the Persons with Disabilities (Equal
Opportunity Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act of 1995.
The Bill provides for five per cent
reservation in public sector jobs and makes the private sector more accountable
for creating a disabled-friendly environment. It provides incentives for the
private sector to take such measures.
On political participation, the proposed law
says every person with disability who fulfils eligibility requirements is
entitled to be registered as a voter. He/she should not be disqualified from
exercising the voting right on the grounds of disability, irrespective of any
stipulation to the contrary in any law for the time being in force.
Any person who is unable to vote in person due
to disability or because of admission to hospital for treatment is entitled to
opt for postal ballot, says the Bill. It requires the Election Commission to
ensure that all polling stations are accessible to persons with disabilities.
The proposed law also allows mentally unsound
women the right to fertility and prescribes punishment for forced abortion or
hysterectomy on them.
“Historic move”
“The Bill is based on the premise of all
rights for all disabled,” activist Javed Abidi told The Hindu. The definition of disability “is expansive
and covers all kinds of disability whether physical or mental,” he said,
describing the move as historic.
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